UVALDE, Texas — Funeral and memorial services are underway in Uvalde following last week's elementary school shooting that took 21 lives. 

On Tuesday, Gov. Greg Abbott declared a state of disaster following the Uvalde school massacre at Robb Elementary to speed up the access of resources for community assistance.

“The community of Uvalde has been left devastated by last week’s senseless act of violence at Robb Elementary School and should not have to encounter any difficulty in receiving the support needed to heal,” said Governor Abbott. “This disaster declaration frees up the many resources available through the State of Texas and local jurisdictions to continue providing much needed support to all who were impacted and work in the community unencumbered by regulations unnecessary to respond to this tragedy. All of Texas stands with Uvalde, and we are prepared to provide support through all available means.”

Abbott’s declaration lets state agencies keep providing help as a response to the tragedy, with a temporary family resource center included for mental health needs and so forth.

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission, the local mental health authority and others have organized to extend aid to Uvalde. Community members can contact a 24/7 hotline: 888-690-0799.